This week ZAlebs introduces a new series; "What's Playing in *Celebrity Name*'s Car" Our very first guest on our series is none other than Watershed frontman who has recently released a solo record, Craig Hinds. Let's see what's playing in his car as well as how he's taking to the life of a solo artist.

Craig Hinds, it's a pleasure to have you here. How do you feel about taking this solo leap of faith without the backing of your band?

Me going solo I think is something that invariably happens in a songwriters career, obviously being a a part of Watershed and still being a part of the group and seeing that we’re still on the road, the fact that I’m able to do a solo album is awesome! I view this as my own creative outlet, pursuing something different and just to be able to experiment with new songs and get my own material out there.

Some of the songs on your debut album were recorded in Hollywood with contributions from musicians like John Mayer. How was it working with musicians of that calibre?

It was great, actually the whole album was recorded in Hollywood, last year I went to L.A for about a month to sharpen up on my creative writing craft and during that process I worked with Jamie Hartman who was the producer of my album.  The creative process went so well that he suggested that I just record the entire album in Hollywood, so I flew back to South Africa packed a bigger back then went back to the States.  Jamie and I did most of the composing of the album except the drums and bass which were done by two guys who were part of John Mayer’s band. 

For artists trying to break into the industry, which two albums would you advise them to listen to, to get their creative writing juices running?

Well I think any album from the Counting Crows from a lyrical and song writing perspective would be great for aspiring artists wanting to break out in the industry.  Counting Crow’s front man Adam Duritz has come up with the most amazing lyrics over the years, another interesting album to listen to would be Brandon Flowers ‘Flamingo’ album which has very inspiring lyrics.

What's playing in Craig Hinds' car right now?

At the moment I currently dug into my crates and am listening to R.E.M’s album titled Automatic for the people the whole album is my playlist of the week actually and I think R.E.M is a great band.

Favourite song when angry at the world?

Wow, I can’t actually pin-point a song for you right now but I do think it really is about spending time alone and putting on any song that will bring you joy, and also just getting into the creative mind of that musician and try to figure out how he/she came up with that particular part of the song. 

Women’s month is around the corner and in the past we’ve had many songs dedicated to women which is your most favourite song that reaches out to women?

That’s an easy question, “Indigo Girl” by Watershed I did write that song after all! [Laughs]

On your way to Heaven which musical instrument would you want to be played when making your grand entrance through the Pearly Gates?

I’d like a cello to be played. No drum rolls or anything dramatic like that.

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